(Michal's advice?)
Mihai straightened up and took Tal's hand. Using ancient court manners, he kissed it once, then retreated. Surprisingly, his lips were warm and soft, unlike many 7000 year old men.
"Thank you, lady. I need some trust to survive, unlike..."
The rest of his sentence was cut off as a sudden howling set up in the forest near them. It sounded much like dogs, but the note was unearthly and cold.